How to Get to the Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/10/2026) (readMedia)-- With new parking improvements, updated traffic entries and convenient transportation options, Fairgoers have more ways to get to the fun at the Iowa State Fair. Whether you choose to park, ride DART or hop on the new FREE shuttle from Southridge Mall, there's an option to fit your Fair visit.

Plan your route, choose your ride and get ready for 11 days of Fair Spirit!

GETTING TO THE FAIR

NEW! FREE BUS SERVICE

Southridge Mall: The new CIT Transportation service from Southridge Mall is free for all riders. Free parking will be marked in the mall parking lot. Buses run continuously from 8 a.m. to midnight. Note: bus service ends at 9 p.m. Sunday, August 23.

BICYCLES

Bicycle parking is free inside Gate 13. Please enter off Maple Ave to Gate 13 for designated bicycle parking. The parking will be secured and safe inside the parking lot, just outside of the entry gate. Bikers are encouraged to bring their own locks.

RIDESHARE

Uber, Lyft and taxis: Pick up and drop off just past Gate 8 off Dean Avenue. Drivers are not allowed to drive in Gate 8- Look for the pull off area just east of the gate. For GPS, use 203 Rock Island, Des Moines, IA 50317.

DART PARK & RIDE

Free parking and paid shuttle services are available from:

  • 7th & Center Street Park & Ride - 830 6th Ave., Des Moines
  • Iowa State Capitol - E. 12th Street between E. Grand and E. Walnut

Buses run from 8 a.m. to midnight. Note: bus service ends at 9 p.m. Sunday, August 23.

FAIRGROUNDS PARKING

On-site parking: Lots A, B and C are accessible off University Avenue for $10. Cash and credit/debit cards are accepted. ADA/Accessible Parking is available in paved and hard-packed areas. Accessible parking spaces in Lots A, B and C on the Iowa State Fairgrounds are on a first come, first served basis. Enter Gate 2A (East 33rd and East University Ave) to access Lot A & Gate 3 (East 36th St and East University) to access Lots B & C.

HOW TO GET FAIR UPDATES

Drive, park and walk; ride the free Southridge Mall shuttle; take DART from the Capitol or 7th & Center Street; or use rideshare/taxi services, let's celebrate Fair Spirit, August 13-23.

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Frequently ranked as one of the top events in the country, the Iowa State Fair is the single largest event in the state of Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. Annually attracting more than a million people from all over the world, the Iowa State Fair, located at East 30th and East University, just 10 minutes from downtown Des Moines, is Iowa's greatest celebration with a salute to the best in agriculture, industry, entertainment and achievement. Fair Spirit, to be held August 13–23, 2026, promises to stand as one of its most historic events yet. For more information, visit www.iowastatefair.org.